Artwork

James I

James I, by Francis Delaram, ink, 1608
James I, by Francis Delaram, ink, 1608

James I is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Francis Delaram. It dates from 1608 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

James I is a 1608 engraving by Francis Delaram, depicting the monarch in a formal profile, characteristic of royal portrait prints from the era.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving portrays James I in formal, elaborate attire, conveying the seriousness and dignity expected in royal representations of the time.

Technique & Style

Delaram's engraving showcases Flemish influences, evident in the decorative cherubs framing the king. The figure is meticulously detailed, while the background exhibits less precision, reflecting the artist's training, possibly under Cornelis Boel.

History & Provenance

Francis Delaram, a Flanders-born engraver active in England (1615-1624/1627), created this work. His oeuvre includes portraits, landscapes, and illustrations, such as those for William Camden's Historie.

Context

The engraving's style and format align with early 17th-century European royal portraiture. Delaram's potential connection to Cornelis Boel, contributor to the 1611 King James Bible, further situates the work within a broader artistic and religious context.

Legacy

While specific lasting impacts of this engraving are not detailed, it contributes to the understanding of early 17th-century engraving techniques and the representation of James I in contemporary art.

Artist & collection

Artist

Francis Delaram

Francis Delaram (born around 1590, fl. 1615–1624 or 1627), was an English engraver. Delaram left a substantial collection of engraved portraits, landscapes and book illustrations (specifically, William Camden's…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.